COOPER BACK FOR DRAGONS

13 October 2005 13:25

By

Cooper underwent an ankle operation over the summer and will make his first full start for the Region on Friday after appearing as a replacement in the Dragons Powergen Cup match against Northampton last Saturday.

"I am chomping at the bit to play," commented Gareth Cooper. "I am happy to have the chance to play especially with Gareth Baber playing well. I knew I would have a fight on my hands to regain a place in the starting line up. However, now I have an opportunity I aim to take it with both hands and I cannot wait to get back onto the field and play again for The Dragons."

Head Coach Paul Tuner has made seven changes to the team from last weekend and apart from changes at fullback and scrum half has selected the same team that defeated Leicester a fortnight ago at Rodney Parade.

Leigh Hinton comes in at full back from Sione Tuipulotu while Ceri Sweeney moves back to inside centre where he proved very effective against the Leicester Tigers. Craig Warlow comes in at fly half while Welsh international Cooper starts at scrum half.

There are three changes in the forwards Adam Black replaces David Maddocks, Ian Gough comes in for Peter Sidoli while Andrew Hall gets his fourth start of the season.

Looking ahead to the game Paul Turner commented, "We have another tough game this weekend against Edinburgh who have been doing well in the Celtic League and are currently in third position. We have performed well in the League but unfortunately results have eluded us. We aim to put this right on Friday night."

The Dragons have been boosted by the news that hooker Steve Jones has recovered from a knee injury to take his place on the replacements bench.

Having signed a national dual contract earlier in the week, Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones will be hoping for a double celebration by leading his country to second place in the NatWest 6 Nations when coming up against France in the final round.

George North inched closer to Shane Williams record of 22 tries in the Six Nations, his brace taking him to third on the list with Gareth Edwards (18) now in his sights. He looks back on a job well done by Wales.

Taulupe Faletau is looking forward to his first game as Wales captain where he will play alongside debutant James Davies in a fresh looking back row against Italy in the NatWest 6 Nations tomorrow afternoon in Cardiff

Head coach Warren Gatland has handed 'world-class' Taulupe Faletau the captaincy for Wales' clash against Italy on Sunday, and believes it is an opportunity for Wales to get even 'more out of him in terms of leadership qualities'

The Wales squad reported back into camp this morning ahead of Sunday's vital NatWest 6 Nations encounter against Italy. Assistant coach Neil Jenkins says the return of Taulupe Faletau is a big plus for the team.

Wales assistant coach Robin McBryde pays Ireland credit for their victory last Saturday in the NatWest 6 Nations but refuses to get bogged down with the result as there is a bigger picture to think about as well - the forthcoming Rugby World Cup.